Industry-trained crews
Local moving companies in Madison
- TWO MEN AND A TRUCK: 4.62 out of 5 stars
- Straightline Moving, Inc.: 4.58 out of 5 stars
- Dreiske Moving & Storage: 4.52 out of 5 stars
- Top Notch Moving and Storage: 4.42 out of 5 stars
- The Armstrong Company: 4.42 out of 5 stars
Company Info
Years in Business: 31
DOT #: 2527384
Alternate Names: Lightner & Lightner, Inc.
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Pianos
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 217042
Years in Business: 9
DOT #: 3047914
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Grandfather clocks
- Crating
- Full-valuation coverage
- Storage
- Safes
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
State license #: 69338
DOT #: 822740
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Pool Tables
- Art
- Antiques
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by cash
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 5
DOT #: 3322160
Alternate Names: TopNotchMovers LLC
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Crating
- Storage
- Pay by credit card
Company Info
Years in Business: 39
DOT #: 1170867
Alternate Names: Armstrong Transfer & Storage Co., Inc., Armstrong Relocation & Commercial Services, The Armstrong Company
Services Offered
- Local moves
- Interstate moves
- International moves
- Packing
- Unpacking
- Offices
- Pianos
- Art
- Antiques
- Storage
- Fragile-only packing
- Pay by credit card
Factors influencing moving costs from Madison to California
The cost of Madison movers will depend on:
- Move size: The amount of items you have, as well as your home size and layout, will impact the total cost of your relocation.
- Time of year: Summer is peak moving season in Madison, so moving companies will likely charge more.
- DIY vs. professional mover: DIY moving services are usually cheaper but involve more work and stress compared to hiring the pros.
What to know before moving from Madison, WI, to California
Heading from Madison to California comes with new adventures, but also a bump in living expenses. Because California usually has a higher cost of living than Madison, it’s smart to budget and plan ahead.
Take a look at how living in Madison stacks up against California so you’re prepared before making the move:
Compare cost of living: Madison vs. California
| Madison, WI | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Average rent cost | $1,600 | $1,856 |
| Average home cost | $367,934 | $771,057 |
| Average income (per capita) | $62,919 | $91,905 |
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | 5.4% |
| State income tax | 7.65% | 13.3% |
California sources: World Population Review, US Census Bureau, US BLS, Tax Foundation
- Plan to set aside extra for rent in California. It typically runs 16% higher than in Madison.
- Thinking about buying? Home prices in California are roughly 109.6% higher than in Madison, so make sure you can afford a steeper mortgage.
- You’ll find average incomes are around 46.1% higher in California compared to Madison.
- Unemployment rates are about 63.6% higher in California than in Madison.
- Brace yourself for higher income taxes. They’re 73.86% steeper in California than in Madison.
How life is different in Madison, WI, from California
If you’re moving from Madison to California, everything from the weather and local population to the predominant political views can feel pretty different. Let’s break down what life in California is like compared to the Mad City.
| Madison, WI | California | |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 39,029,342 | 269,840 |
| Political leaning | Democratic 76-23 | Democratic 59-41 |
| Summer high | 87ºF | 82ºF |
| Winter low | 59ºF | 10ºF |
| Annual rain | 22" | 36" |
| Annual snow | 7" | 42" |
| Crime index | 28.43 | 34.57 |
California sources: US Census Bureau, 270TOWIN, BestPlaces
- In the latest presidential election, California voted Democratic and Madison voted Democratic.
- Summer in California can heat up to about 87°F, while Madison typically sees highs of 82°F. Get ready for warmer weather when summer rolls around.
- In the coldest months, Madison dips down to 10°F, while California sees milder lows of just 59°F. That means you’ll enjoy milder winters in the Golden State.
- When you’re heading to California from Madison, you won’t need your raincoat as often. California sees only about 22 inches of rain annually, less than the 36 inches you’re used to in Madison.
- In California, you can expect just 7 inches of snow each year, much less than the 42 inches back in Madison. Get ready for easier winters in the Golden State!
Other considerations when moving to California from Madison
When moving from Madison to California, think beyond just hiring movers and boxing up your stuff to keep things running smoothly. Don’t forget to check local regulations, permits, and any other logistics that could affect your move.
- Weather: California has a great Mediterranean climate throughout most of the state. In the Southeast, you may experience colder winters and hotter summers. The northern part of California experiences more rain than the rest of the state. Before your move be sure to check for rain or very hot days..
- HOA rules: Check ahead with any neighborhood or community rules on moving to ensure a smooth move.
- Elevator reservation: If your building has an elevator, you’ll want to check on how to reserve it for move day.
- Truck parking permits: Some cities require parking permits for large vehicles and moving trucks. Find out if you need any parking permits ahead of time.
- State licensing: When contacting a local moving company for an estimate in California, make sure each has a “T Number” issued by the California Public Utilities Commission (CAPUC). Moving companies with valid T Numbers have met state requirements for insurance, safety, and financial stability and have passed criminal clearance checks conducted by the California Department of Justice. Make sure the moving company you use has a license before hiring.
- State regulator: You can verify a California moving license and its status on the state regulator's official website.
- Moving permits: California does not require any moving permits, but it is helpful to check local parking restrictions before moving into the state.
- Change of address: We recommend submitting your change of address form with USPS at least a week prior to your move. You can set an official move date on the form and this way all of your mail will get properly forwarded to California. Get started here.
- Moving insurance: Every state has their own requirements when it comes to insurance. Opt for Released Value Protection – a cost-free choice provided by movers with minimal coverage. The liability is capped at 60 cents per pound per article. For instance, if a 50-inch TV weighing 25 pounds is lost or damaged, your reimbursement is only $15 (60 cents x 25 pounds). To ensure comprehensive coverage for your items' full value, consult with your chosen moving company or consider third-party insurance options.
- Moving checklist: Peace of mind is priceless. Our moving checklist will help you know you’ve got everything covered.
Things to do in California
Whether you’re into sports, parks, museums, or universities, California has tons for you to discover and enjoy.
Museums in California
Parks in California
Sports Teams in California
Universities in California
FAQs
How long does a move from Madison to California take?
Curious about how long it’ll take to move from Madison, WI to California? Typically, the process takes about six to 17 days, but the service you choose can affect the timeline. Keep in mind that if you’re planning a summer move, things might take a bit longer due to higher demand.
Keep your move on track by confirming delivery timelines with your movers ahead of time. That way, you won’t get stuck with any surprise delays.
What is the best way to get a car from Madison to California?
Need to ship your car from Madison to California? Trust professionals who’ll protect your vehicle and manage all the details seamlessly. See our top choices for car shipping from Madison to California.
Why are people moving from Madison to California?
Many people are moving to California because of its ample economic opportunity and pleasant weather.
Where can I find a list of long-distance moving companies in Madison?
Here are our top picks for the best long-distance movers in Madison .
